When the Indian summer is at its peak, staying hydrated and refreshed becomes essential. What better way to beat the heat than with a cooling and invigorating Mint-Coriander Cooler? Packed with the goodness of fresh herbs and a touch of zing, this delightful drink is the perfect companion for scorching summer days. Join us as we take you through a step-by-step recipe to create this refreshing elixir.

Ingredients:

• 1 Cup Fresh Mint Leaves
• 1 Cup Fresh Coriander Leaves
• 1 Piece of Ginger, Peeled
• 1 Green Chili, Seeded (Optional for Heat)
• 1 Teaspoon Roasted Cumin Powder
• 1/2 Teaspoon Black Salt (or to Taste)
• Juice of 1 Lemon
• 3 Cups Chilled Water
• Ice Cubes
• Fresh Mint Sprigs for Garnish

Instructions:

1. Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Herb Base. Wash the fresh mint leaves and coriander leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Step 2: Blend the Ingredients. In a Blender, add the mint leaves, coriander leaves, peeled ginger, green chili (if using), roasted cumin powder, black salt, and the juice of one lemon. Blend the ingredients on medium speed until you obtain a smooth and vibrant green mixture.
3. Step 3: Strain the Mixture. Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a jug. Pour the mixture into the strainer and use the back of a spoon to gently press and extract the liquid. Continue until you have strained all the liquid, leaving behind any fibrous or solid remnants.
4. Step 4: Chill and Serve. Add chilled water to the strained mixture and stir well to combine. Taste the cooler and adjust the seasoning by adding more black salt or lemon juice, if desired. Place the jug in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Step 5: Serve and Garnish. When ready to serve, fill tall Glasses with ice cubes. Give the cooler a good stir and pour it into the Glasses, dividing it equally. Garnish each Glass with a fresh mint sprig for an aromatic touch.
6. Step 6: Enjoy!. Sip on the Mint-Coriander Cooler, relishing the refreshing flavors that invigorate your senses. Feel the cooling sensation spread throughout your body, offering respite from the summer heat.

Tips: For an extra burst of freshness, you can add a few sprigs of fresh basil or a dash of Chaat masala to the cooler. Adjust the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of green chili used. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the cooler a second time using a finer strainer or cheesecloth.

With its vibrant green color and revitalizing flavors, the Mint-Coriander Cooler is the perfect antidote to the scorching Indian summer. This easy-to-make drink combines the goodness of fresh herbs and zesty ingredients, leaving you feeling cool and refreshed. So, beat the heat with this invigorating elixir and savor the joys of summer in every sip!

Note: Feel free to experiment with the proportions of herbs and spices to suit your personal taste preferences.